Charleston, WV – The National Youth Science Academy (NYSAcademy), formerly the National Youth Science Foundation, is pleased to announce the promotion of Ryan Haupt as its new Executive Director, following a vote from the Board of Trustees on April 1, 2023.
As Executive Director of the National Youth Science Academy, Ryan will oversee the National Youth Science Camp (NYSCamp) and associated West Virginia student programs that the NYSAcademy has developed to promote STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) education and careers amongst young people. These WV-focused programs include summer camps, outreach events, and other extracurricular experiences to engage students.
Ryan grew up in Charleston, WV, and since graduating from George Washington High School in south hills went on to eventually earn a PhD in Geology and Geophysics from the University of Wyoming studying ground sloths, including the WV state fossil, Megalonyx jeffersonii.
“I am humbled by the opportunity to continue serving the National Youth Science Academy as its new Executive Director,” Ryan said. “STEAM education and literacy is critically important for our nation’s youth, and I am eager to continue working with our team to find ways to provide STEAM-based opportunities for young people!”
Ryan’s appointment is critical for the National Youth Science Academy as the organization seeks to expand its reach and impact in the coming years. With his expertise and leadership, the NYSAcademy is well-positioned to achieve its mission of promoting science education and empowering youth to make a positive difference in the world.
“We are delighted to welcome Ryan Haupt as our new Executive Director. His performance and leadership over the past two years in restarting impactful West Virginia student STEAM programming give the NYSAcademy confidence in his desire to inspire students. It has been wonderful to observe his interaction with WV students”, said Ron Pearson, Chair of the National Youth Science Academy’s Board of Trustees. “He brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for science education, and we are confident that he can lead the Academy to new heights while introducing thousands of WV students to the opportunities in STEAM fields in the years ahead.”
The mission of the National Youth Science Academy is to inspire lifelong engagement and ethical leadership in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and related professions through its proven educational model for mentoring, challenging, and motivating students. By building communities among students, teachers, and professionals, NYSAcademy programs complement, broaden, and enhance the traditional school curriculum leading to careers in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and related professions.